Typhoon Halong Unleashes Devastation in Japan and Alaska

In early October 2025, Typhoon Halong, the twenty-second named storm of the Pacific typhoon season, formed south of Iwo Jima. Rapidly intensifying into a Category 4 typhoon, Halong developed a clear eye by October 6. The storm tracked northwestward, impacting Japan's Volcano, Ogasawara, and Izu islands before transitioning into an extratropical cyclone on October 10. Halong then moved northward, entering the Bering Sea on October 11 and striking western Alaska on October 12.

In Japan, Halong generated strong waves that resulted in one fatality. On Hachijō-jima, wind speeds reached 107 knots, and record rainfall of 349 millimeters was observed. Over 2,700 customers lost water service, and another 2,200 experienced power outages. Several roads became impassable due to flooding and downed trees.

As an extratropical cyclone, Halong brought hurricane-force winds and a significant storm surge to western Alaska's Yukon–Kuskokwim Delta. Wind gusts exceeded 100 mph, and water levels rose about 2 meters above mean higher high water, setting record levels in parts of the region. The storm caused extensive damage to multiple villages, including Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, where homes were swept away, and several residents went missing.

In response, one of the largest airlifts in Alaska's history was initiated to evacuate hundreds of residents from the hardest-hit communities. Approximately 300 evacuees were relocated to Anchorage, while others were moved to shelters in Bethel. The American Red Cross deployed disaster workers to support those affected, providing shelter, food, and assistance as winter approached.

Alaska climate specialist Rick Thoman of the University of Alaska Fairbanks explained that the ex-typhoon was fueled by near-record warm Pacific ocean temperatures. He noted that the storm's track and intensity shifted within just 36 hours of landfall, leaving little time for communities to prepare or evacuate.

Senator Lisa Murkowski, after surveying the damage, stated, "It’s the present that I’m most worried for, because I think you’re still dealing with a lot of people in trauma and shock. But there will be many conversations about next steps."

This event underscores the vulnerability of coastal communities to severe weather events and highlights the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in regions with thawing permafrost and diminishing sea ice. The storm's impact has prompted discussions on the need for improved infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and climate resilience in remote communities. The extensive damage and displacement have also raised concerns about the long-term viability of these villages and the potential need for relocation.

Typhoon Halong's devastating impact on Japan and Alaska serves as a stark reminder of the growing threats posed by climate change and the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to protect vulnerable communities. The event highlights the importance of improved infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and climate resilience to mitigate the effects of future extreme weather events.